what does USM Mean?? And does it make a difference??

12 years 11 months ago #79243 by LovePhotography
what is the difference between a regular lens and a lens with USM? I am not really even sure what it means..

anybody?? :unsure: :unsure: :unsure:


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12 years 11 months ago #79261 by icepics
The KEH catalog (which I just got and have had my nose in all week) always gives you a list of abbreviations - USM is ultrasonic motor. I think it refers to the type motor used in some autofocus lenses (which I don't use much so don't know much about).

Sharon
Photo Comments
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12 years 11 months ago #79265 by kcphotography

LovePhotography wrote: what is the difference between a regular lens and a lens with USM? I am not really even sure what it means..

anybody?? :unsure: :unsure: :unsure:


UltraSonic Motor

The main advantage of using a ring USM, is that the motor is built into the lens so that it can auto focus faster than a standard lens.

Canon's USM / UltraSonic Motors, are also famous for being quieter than standard motors used in cheaper lenses. This is useful for wildlife photographers, where animals and insects could become spooked from noisy camera parts.


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12 years 11 months ago #79267 by chasrich
Canon uses this acronym - USM - to designate an Ultra Sonic Motor is used for autofocus. I suppose that means it is faster or more quiet... Earlier models will not have this designation so to some degree it dates the design of the lens.

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